West Bank firefighter booked with theft after using department funds

A West Bank firefighter accused of stealing from his own department has been booked with theft and possession of stolen property by the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office.

Craig Bellanger, 42, of 9560 Linden Loop, Waggaman was booked Monday with theft over $1,500 and possession of stolen items valued in excess of $1,500. Bellanger was released from custody that same day after posting $10,000 bond.

According to an arrest report, Bellanger is accused of stealing more than $34,000 from the Marrero-Harvey Volunteer Fire Department while he was treasurer for the organization. When questioned by police, Bellanger admitted to using the money to pay credit card bills and buy items from two local stores.

Investigators located several items purchased using fire department money at Bellanger's home, and he later turned over additional items to them. Bellanger admitted that he did not have permission from the fire department's board to make those purchases.